WO2018130610A1 - Camera device for a motor vehicle with a cleaning device for providing the air stream, camera system as well as motor vehicle - Google Patents

Camera device for a motor vehicle with a cleaning device for providing the air stream, camera system as well as motor vehicle Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018130610A1
WO2018130610A1 PCT/EP2018/050643 EP2018050643W WO2018130610A1 WO 2018130610 A1 WO2018130610 A1 WO 2018130610A1 EP 2018050643 W EP2018050643 W EP 2018050643W WO 2018130610 A1 WO2018130610 A1 WO 2018130610A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
camera
motor vehicle
fan element
air stream
cleaning
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2018/050643
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Brian Cleary
Mark Shaw
Mark MCDONAGH
Rachel O'Connor
Original Assignee
Connaught Electronics Ltd.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Connaught Electronics Ltd. filed Critical Connaught Electronics Ltd.
Publication of WO2018130610A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018130610A1/en

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B27/00—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00
    • G02B27/0006—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00 with means to keep optical surfaces clean, e.g. by preventing or removing dirt, stains, contamination, condensation
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
    • B60R11/04—Mounting of cameras operative during drive; Arrangement of controls thereof relative to the vehicle
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60S—SERVICING, CLEANING, REPAIRING, SUPPORTING, LIFTING, OR MANOEUVRING OF VEHICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60S1/00—Cleaning of vehicles
    • B60S1/02—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices
    • B60S1/56—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices specially adapted for cleaning other parts or devices than front windows or windscreens

Definitions

  • Camera device for a motor vehicle with a cleaning device for providing the air stream, camera system as well as motor vehicle
  • the present invention relates to a camera device for a motor vehicle including a camera for detecting an environmental region of the motor vehicle, wherein the camera comprises a lens device having at least one lens, including a holding device for holding the camera on the motor vehicle and including a cleaning device for cleaning an outer surface of the lens device. Moreover, the present invention relates to a camera system with at least one such camera device. Finally, the present invention relates to a motor vehicle with such a camera system.
  • camera devices for motor vehicles.
  • Such camera devices can for example be a part of a camera system.
  • Such camera systems serve for assisting the driver in driving the motor vehicle.
  • camera systems are to be considered, which have a so-called electronic rearview mirror.
  • Such an electronic rearview mirror can also be referred to as Camera Monitoring System (CMS) or as e-mirror.
  • CMS Camera Monitoring System
  • e-mirror e-mirror.
  • the electronic rearview mirror usually includes multiple cameras or camera devices, which are disposed distributed at the motor vehicle and by which the
  • the environmental region of the motor vehicle can be captured in the form of an image sequence or in the form of video data. These video data can then be presented to the driver of the motor vehicle on a corresponding display device.
  • the areas, which otherwise can be seen by conventional rearview mirrors or wing mirrors of the motor vehicle can be captured by the cameras.
  • the conventional rearview mirrors, which have a light reflecting surface, can be replaced with an electronic rearview mirror.
  • the environmental region of the motor vehicle can be detected reliably by means of the camera. If an outer surface of a lens device, which usually comprises a plurality of lenses, is soiled, a reliable operation of the camera system cannot be ensured. Due to the contamination of the outer surface of the lens device, the viewing area of the camera can be reduced. Thus, for example, obstacles in the environment of the motor vehicle can no longer be clearly identified.
  • US 2012/0133768 A1 describes a rear vision video camera and display screen system for a motor vehicle comprising externally mounted left and right side view video cameras for viewing regions to the side of the vehicle, and a rear view video camera mounted at the rear of the vehicle for viewing a region behind the vehicle.
  • the system can further comprise water jet nozzles that are mounted on the shell of the vehicle adjacent to each of the side view video cameras and rear view video camera for spraying a jet of water to clean mud, dust, dirt, condensation and the like away from the view of the camera.
  • this object is solved by a camera device, by a camera system as well as by a motor vehicle having the features according to the respective independent claims.
  • Advantageous developments of the present invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims.
  • a camera device for a motor vehicle preferably includes a camera for providing images of an environmental region of the motor vehicle.
  • the camera has a lens device with at least one lens.
  • the camera apparatus preferably comprises a holding device holding the camera in the motor vehicle.
  • the camera device preferably comprises a cleaning device for cleaning an outer surface of the lens device.
  • the cleaning device is a fan element which is in particular arranged on the holding device and which is preferably designed to provide an air stream for cleaning the outer surface of the lens device.
  • the camera device includes a holding device for holding the camera on the motor vehicle.
  • the camera device includes a cleaning device for cleaning an outer surface of the lens device.
  • the cleaning device has a fan element, which is arranged on the holding device and which is designed to provide an air flow for cleaning the outer surface of the lens device.
  • the camera device can be a part of a camera system, by which an
  • the camera device can be a part of a so-called electronic rearview mirror, which serves for replacing the conventional rearview mirrors and/or wing mirrors.
  • the camera device includes the camera, by means of which images of the environmental region of the motor vehicle can be continuously provided.
  • the camera device can in particular be disposed in a lateral area of the motor vehicle.
  • the camera device has the holding device by means of which the camera can be mounted to the motor vehicle and in particular to an outer side of the motor vehicle.
  • the environmental region laterally next to the motor vehicle can preferably be captured by the camera.
  • the environmental region on a side next to the motor vehicle can be captured, which is otherwise visible by a wing mirror.
  • the images provided by the camera can for example be transmitted to a display device in the interior of the motor vehicle and be displayed there.
  • the environmental region laterally next to the motor vehicle and/or behind the motor vehicle can be displayed to the driver of the motor vehicle.
  • the camera also comprises the lens device, which preferably comprises a plurality of lenses.
  • the lens device With this lens device, light from the environment of the motor vehicle can be imaged onto an image sensor of the camera.
  • the lens device has the outer surface which, in the intended installation position of the camera device, faces to the environment of the motor vehicle.
  • the camera device comprises the cleaning device, by means of which the outer surface of the lens device can be cleaned. Thus, deposits such as dust or dirt can be removed from the lens device. Furthermore, water drops, ice or snow can be removed from the outer surface of the lens device by means of the cleaning device.
  • the cleaning device has a fan element by means of which an air stream can be provided for cleaning the outer surface of the lens device. Dirt particles, dust and/or moisture drops, which have deposited on the outer surface of the lens device, can be removed by this air stream. The air stream can also prevent dirt particles, dust and / or moisture drops from being deposited on the lens device.
  • the cleaning device or the fan element is arranged on the holding device. In particular, it is provided that the holding device has a recess in which the fan element is arranged at least partially.
  • the camera device itself has the cleaning device by means of which the lens device can be cleaned by means of an air stream or freed from deposits. This enables reliable operation of the camera device.
  • the fan element is arranged in a recess of the holding device, wherein an intermediate space for guiding the air flow is formed between the holding device and the fan element.
  • the holding device can have the recess in which the camera is arranged at least partially.
  • the camera can be arranged in the recess such that the outer surface of the lens device is visible from the outside.
  • the fan element is arranged in the recess of the holding device.
  • the fan element is arranged in the recess in such a way that the intermediate space is formed, which serves to guide the air stream.
  • the intermediate space forms a channel around the fan element for guiding the air flow.
  • the fan element is designed as an axial fan.
  • the intermediate space and/or the fan element are designed in such a way that the air stream is first guided along an axial direction of the fan element and then in a radial direction of the fan element over the outer surface.
  • the intermediate space can surround the fan element on the circumference side.
  • the fan element which is designed in the manner of an axial fan, the air stream can first be guided in the axial direction and then in the radial direction over the outer surface of the lens device.
  • the air stream is guided in the radial direction from an edge region of the outer surface to a center point of the outer surface.
  • the outer surface of the lens device can be reliably cleaned by the air stream.
  • the air stream prevents contaminants from being deposited on the outer surface.
  • the holding device has an air guiding element for guiding the air stream in the radial direction of the fan element.
  • the air guiding element can be designed in such a way that a cross-sectional area of the recess in which the lens device and the fan element are arranged tapers along the direction of flow of the air stream.
  • the air guiding element can be embodied in one-part or integral with the holding device.
  • the air guiding element can also be designed as a separate component. It can thus be achieved that the air stream is first guided in the axial direction and then in the radial direction.
  • the camera has a camera housing on which the lens device is held, wherein the camera housing has a round cross-section at least in some areas, and wherein the fan element surrounds the camera housing at least in some areas.
  • the camera housing can be, for example, of cylindrical design.
  • the camera electronics, which in particular comprises the image sensor of the camera, can be arranged in the camera housing.
  • the camera housing can have a through-opening into which the lens device is introduced at least in some areas.
  • the fan element is arranged around the camera housing.
  • the cleaning device has a bearing element by means of which the fan element is rotatably mounted on the camera housing.
  • the bearing element can, for example, be formed by a ball bearing or a plain bearing.
  • the fan member can be moved or rotated with a low friction relative to the camera housing.
  • the cleaning device has a drive device for driving the fan element.
  • the drive device can, for example, comprise an electric motor.
  • the fan element can then be driven or moved with the electric motor.
  • the electric motor can be designed as a direct current motor or as an alternating current motor.
  • the drive device can also be arranged in the recess of the holding device.
  • the holding device can also have a channel through which the air is guided from a suction opening to the fan element.
  • the channel can be designed in such a way that the air, which flows through the channel or flows from the environment into the channel, drives the fan element.
  • the speed of the air in the channel can also increase. For this reason the speed of the fan element can increase with increasing speed of the motor vehicle.
  • the drive device can be implemented dependent on the speed of the motor vehicle or the current rotational speed of the fan element.
  • the drive device can be designed in such a way that the fan element can be driven up to a maximum rotational speed. Due to the air flowing through the channel, the fan element can be driven in such a way that this maximum rotational speed is exceeded. This is, for example, possible when the drive device is designed as an alternating current motor. Furthermore, a free wheel of the like can be provided. Thus, the fan element can be driven in a reliable manner.
  • the cleaning device has a heating element for heating the air stream.
  • the heating element can in particular be designed as an electrical heating element.
  • the heating element is essentially annular.
  • the heating element can at least partially surround the fan element.
  • the heating element can be arranged in a region of the fan element facing the lens device.
  • the air stream which is guided in the axial direction via the fan element, can be heated by means of the heating element.
  • a heated air stream can be directed to the outer surface of the lens device. This is particularly suitable for removing ice, snow and/or water droplets, which have deposited on the outer surface of the lens device.
  • the cleaning device has a filter element for filtering the air stream.
  • This filter element can, for example, be perforated or have a plurality of through- openings. Thus, dust or dirt particles located in the air stream can be filtered out.
  • the filter element is essentially annular.
  • the filter element is arranged on the outside of a suction opening of the holding device.
  • the filter element can also be arranged inside a channel of the holding device. This channel can guide the air from the suction opening to the fan element.
  • dirt particles from the air stream can be reliably prevented from accumulating inside the holding device and depositing on the outer surface of the lens device.
  • the holding device has a suction opening for sucking in air from the environment of the holding device and a channel for guiding the air from the suction opening to the fan element.
  • the suction opening can, for example, be arranged on a lower side of the holding device. This suction opening can be connected to the channel which supplies the air to the fan element.
  • air can be supplied from the environment to the fan element to provide the air flow for cleaning the lens device.
  • a camera system according to the invention for a motor vehicle includes at least one camera device according to the invention.
  • the camera system can comprise two camera devices, which can each be disposed in the lateral areas of the motor vehicle.
  • the camera system can comprise a further camera, by means of which the environmental region behind the motor vehicle in direction of travel can be monitored.
  • the camera system comprises a camera, by means of which the environmental region in front of the motor vehicle in direction of travel can be monitored.
  • the camera system comprises a display device, by means of which a display can be output based on the images captured by the camera.
  • the images provided by the cameras can be displayed on the display device.
  • the camera system can in particular be formed as a so-called electronic rearview mirror.
  • a motor vehicle according to the invention includes a camera system according to the invention.
  • the motor vehicle is in particular formed as a passenger car.
  • the camera device of the camera system is disposed in a lateral area of the motor vehicle.
  • the camera device can be disposed in an area, in which the wing mirrors are usually disposed.
  • Fig. 1 a motor vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention, which
  • Fig 2 a camera device of the camera system in a perspective view
  • Fig 3 the camera device according to Fig. 2 in an exploded view
  • Fig 4 a fan element of the camera device in a side view
  • Fig 5 a camera of the camera device in a perspective view
  • Fig. 6 a heating element and a filter element of the camera device in a perspective view
  • Fig. 7 a schematic representation of the camera device according to a further embodiment
  • Fig. 8 the camera device in a sectional side view
  • Fig. 9 a profile of the air stream for cleaning a lens device of the camera.
  • Fig. 1 shows a motor vehicle 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention in a plan view.
  • the motor vehicle 1 is formed as a passenger car.
  • the motor vehicle 1 includes a camera system 2, by which an environmental region 8 of the motor vehicle 1 can be monitored.
  • the environmental region 8 laterally next to the motor vehicle 1 can be monitored by the camera system 2.
  • the camera system 2 is formed as a so-called electronic rearview mirror.
  • the conventional wing mirrors and/or rearview mirrors can be replaced with such an electronic rearview mirror.
  • the camera system 2 comprises two camera devices 4.
  • the camera devices 4 - as explained in more detail below - each comprise a camera 9, by means of which images of the environmental region 8 can be recorded.
  • the camera system 2 comprises a camera 9 which is arranged in a rear region 5 of the motor vehicle 1 and a camera 9 which is arranged in a front region 7 of the motor vehicle 1 .
  • the camera system 2 comprises a control device 3, which can be, for example, an electronic control unit of the motor vehicle 1 .
  • the control device 3 is connected to the cameras 9 for data transmission.
  • the camera system 2 comprises a display device 10, which is arranged in an interior of the motor vehicle 1 .
  • a display can be provided on the display device 10 on the basis of the images which are recorded with the cameras 9.
  • the environmental region 8 of the motor vehicle 1 can be displayed to a driver of the motor vehicle 1 .
  • Fig. 2 shows the camera device 4, which is located on the passenger side of the motor vehicle 1 , in a perspective view.
  • the holding device 1 1 can, for example, be made of aluminum. It can be seen here that the camera device 4 has a holding device 1 1 by means of which the camera 9 is held on the motor vehicle 1 . In the present case, an outer surface 12 of a lens device 13 of the camera 9 can be seen.
  • Fig. 3 shows camera device 4 in an exploded view.
  • the camera 9, which has the lens device 13, can be seen.
  • the lens device 13 may have a plurality of lenses which serve to image light from the environmental region 8 to an image sensor of the camera 9.
  • the outer surface 12 of the lens device 13 can be formed by a transparent cover element or by a lens.
  • the camera 9 also comprises a camera housing 14, in which the camera electronics and in particular the image sensor of the camera 9 is arranged.
  • the camera device 4 comprises a cleaning device 15, which serves to clean the outer surface 12 of the lens device 13.
  • the cleaning device 15 comprises a fan element 16, by means of which an air stream for cleaning the lens device 13 can be provided.
  • the cleaning device 15 further comprises a drive device 17 for driving the fan element 16.
  • the drive device 17 can be formed by an electric motor.
  • the cleaning device 15 comprises a bearing element 18, by means of which the fan element 16 is mounted.
  • the bearing element 18 can, for example, be provided by a ball bearing.
  • the cleaning device 15 comprises a heating element 19 for heating the air flow provided by the fan element 16.
  • the cleaning device 15 comprises a filter element 20 for filtering the air stream provided by a channel 27 (see Fig. 9).
  • the holding device 1 1 comprises a recess 21 in which the cleaning device 15 is arranged.
  • the camera 9 is arranged at least partially in the recess 21 .
  • Fig. 4 shows the fan element 16 in a side view.
  • the fan element 16 is designed in the manner of an axial fan.
  • an air stream can be provided, which runs essentially along the axial direction a of the fan element 16. This is illustrated here by the arrows 22.
  • the heating element 19, which is arranged on the fan element 16, can be seen.
  • Fig. 5 shows the camera 9 in a perspective view.
  • the camera housing 14 has a round cross-sectional area on its outer side 23.
  • the cross-sectional area of the camera housing 14 tapers.
  • the fan element 16 is arranged on the outer side 23 of the camera housing 14.
  • the fan element 16 surrounds the camera housing 14.
  • Fig. 6 shows the cleaning device 15, which is arranged on the camera 9 in a detailed view.
  • the heating element 19 can be seen, which serves to heat the air stream, which is provided by the fan element 16.
  • Fig. 7 shows the camera device 4 according to a further embodiment in a schematic representation.
  • the camera 9, which is arranged in the recess 21 of the holding device 1 1 can be seen.
  • an intermediate space 25 is formed, which serves to guide the air stream, which is provided by the fan element 16, in the axial direction a.
  • the holding device 1 1 comprises the air guiding elements 26, which in this case are embodied in one piece with the holding device 1 1 .
  • the cross-sectional area of the recess 21 tapers.
  • Fig. 8 shows a camera device 4 according to a further embodiment in a sectional side view.
  • a channel 27 is shown, via which air is supplied to the fan element 16.
  • the fan element 16 and the intermediate space 25 between the fan element 16 and the holding device 1 1 are designed in such a way that the air stream is guided obliquely between the axial direction a and the radial direction r of the fan element 16 via the outer surface 12 of the lens device 13.
  • Fig. 9 shows the camera device 4 in a sectional side view. It can be seen here that the holding device 1 1 has the channel 27. This channel 27 is connected to a suction opening 28 of the holding device 1 1 . Air can be sucked in from the environment via the suction opening 28. The air is guided from the suction opening 28 to the fan element 16 via the channel 27.
  • the filter element 20 is formed by an element, which has a plurality of through-openings.
  • the filter element 20 can be designed as a grid or as a mesh.
  • the filter element 20 prevents dirt particles, which are present in the air stream in the channel 27, from being deposited on the outer surface 12 of the lens device 13.
  • the air flow is guided with the fan element 16 in the axial direction a. As a result of the shaping of the intermediate space 25, the air stream is then deflected in the radial direction r to the outer surface 12.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Studio Devices (AREA)
  • Camera Bodies And Camera Details Or Accessories (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a camera device (4) for a motor vehicle (1) including a camera (9) for detecting an environmental region (8) of the motor vehicle (1), wherein the camera (9) has a lens device (13) with at least one lens, including a holding device (11) for holding the camera (9) on the motor vehicle (1), and including a cleaning device (15) for cleaning an outer surface (12) of the lens device (13), wherein the cleaning device (15) comprises a fan element (16) which is arranged on the holding device (11) and which is designed to provide an air stream for cleaning the outer surface (12) of the lens device (13).

Description

Camera device for a motor vehicle with a cleaning device for providing the air stream, camera system as well as motor vehicle
The present invention relates to a camera device for a motor vehicle including a camera for detecting an environmental region of the motor vehicle, wherein the camera comprises a lens device having at least one lens, including a holding device for holding the camera on the motor vehicle and including a cleaning device for cleaning an outer surface of the lens device. Moreover, the present invention relates to a camera system with at least one such camera device. Finally, the present invention relates to a motor vehicle with such a camera system.
Presently, the interest is in particular directed to camera devices for motor vehicles. Such camera devices can for example be a part of a camera system. Such camera systems serve for assisting the driver in driving the motor vehicle. Presently, in particular camera systems are to be considered, which have a so-called electronic rearview mirror. Such an electronic rearview mirror can also be referred to as Camera Monitoring System (CMS) or as e-mirror. The electronic rearview mirror usually includes multiple cameras or camera devices, which are disposed distributed at the motor vehicle and by which the
environmental region of the motor vehicle can be captured in the form of an image sequence or in the form of video data. These video data can then be presented to the driver of the motor vehicle on a corresponding display device. In particular, the areas, which otherwise can be seen by conventional rearview mirrors or wing mirrors of the motor vehicle, can be captured by the cameras. The conventional rearview mirrors, which have a light reflecting surface, can be replaced with an electronic rearview mirror.
In the operation of the camera system, it is necessary that the environmental region of the motor vehicle can be detected reliably by means of the camera. If an outer surface of a lens device, which usually comprises a plurality of lenses, is soiled, a reliable operation of the camera system cannot be ensured. Due to the contamination of the outer surface of the lens device, the viewing area of the camera can be reduced. Thus, for example, obstacles in the environment of the motor vehicle can no longer be clearly identified.
In this context, US 2012/0133768 A1 describes a rear vision video camera and display screen system for a motor vehicle comprising externally mounted left and right side view video cameras for viewing regions to the side of the vehicle, and a rear view video camera mounted at the rear of the vehicle for viewing a region behind the vehicle. The system can further comprise water jet nozzles that are mounted on the shell of the vehicle adjacent to each of the side view video cameras and rear view video camera for spraying a jet of water to clean mud, dust, dirt, condensation and the like away from the view of the camera. Moreover, it is known from US 2014/0104426 A1 to use an air jet for cleaning a lens of a camera.
It is the object of the present invention to demonstrate a solution how a camera system of the initially mentioned kind can be more reliably operated.
According to the invention, this object is solved by a camera device, by a camera system as well as by a motor vehicle having the features according to the respective independent claims. Advantageous developments of the present invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims.
According to an embodiment, a camera device for a motor vehicle preferably includes a camera for providing images of an environmental region of the motor vehicle. In addition, it is preferably provided that the camera has a lens device with at least one lens.
Moreover, the camera apparatus preferably comprises a holding device holding the camera in the motor vehicle. In addition, the camera device preferably comprises a cleaning device for cleaning an outer surface of the lens device. In this case, it is preferably provided that the cleaning device is a fan element which is in particular arranged on the holding device and which is preferably designed to provide an air stream for cleaning the outer surface of the lens device.
A camera device according to the invention for a motor vehicle comprises a camera for detecting an environmental region of the motor vehicle, the camera having a lens device with at least one lens. In addition, the camera device includes a holding device for holding the camera on the motor vehicle. In addition, the camera device includes a cleaning device for cleaning an outer surface of the lens device. Furthermore, it is provided that the cleaning device has a fan element, which is arranged on the holding device and which is designed to provide an air flow for cleaning the outer surface of the lens device.
Preferably, the camera device can be a part of a camera system, by which an
environmental region of the motor vehicle can be captured. In particular, the camera device can be a part of a so-called electronic rearview mirror, which serves for replacing the conventional rearview mirrors and/or wing mirrors. The camera device includes the camera, by means of which images of the environmental region of the motor vehicle can be continuously provided. The camera device can in particular be disposed in a lateral area of the motor vehicle. For this purpose, the camera device has the holding device by means of which the camera can be mounted to the motor vehicle and in particular to an outer side of the motor vehicle. Thus, the environmental region laterally next to the motor vehicle can preferably be captured by the camera. For example, the environmental region on a side next to the motor vehicle can be captured, which is otherwise visible by a wing mirror. The images provided by the camera can for example be transmitted to a display device in the interior of the motor vehicle and be displayed there. Thus, the environmental region laterally next to the motor vehicle and/or behind the motor vehicle can be displayed to the driver of the motor vehicle.
The camera also comprises the lens device, which preferably comprises a plurality of lenses. With this lens device, light from the environment of the motor vehicle can be imaged onto an image sensor of the camera. The lens device has the outer surface which, in the intended installation position of the camera device, faces to the environment of the motor vehicle. Furthermore, the camera device comprises the cleaning device, by means of which the outer surface of the lens device can be cleaned. Thus, deposits such as dust or dirt can be removed from the lens device. Furthermore, water drops, ice or snow can be removed from the outer surface of the lens device by means of the cleaning device.
According to one essential aspect of the present invention, it is now provided that the cleaning device has a fan element by means of which an air stream can be provided for cleaning the outer surface of the lens device. Dirt particles, dust and/or moisture drops, which have deposited on the outer surface of the lens device, can be removed by this air stream. The air stream can also prevent dirt particles, dust and / or moisture drops from being deposited on the lens device. The cleaning device or the fan element is arranged on the holding device. In particular, it is provided that the holding device has a recess in which the fan element is arranged at least partially. Thus, the camera device itself has the cleaning device by means of which the lens device can be cleaned by means of an air stream or freed from deposits. This enables reliable operation of the camera device.
Preferably, the fan element is arranged in a recess of the holding device, wherein an intermediate space for guiding the air flow is formed between the holding device and the fan element. The holding device can have the recess in which the camera is arranged at least partially. In particular, the camera can be arranged in the recess such that the outer surface of the lens device is visible from the outside. Furthermore, the fan element is arranged in the recess of the holding device. In this case, the fan element is arranged in the recess in such a way that the intermediate space is formed, which serves to guide the air stream. In particular, the intermediate space forms a channel around the fan element for guiding the air flow. Thus, overall, a camera device with an integrated cleaning device can be provided, which is designed in a particularly space-saving manner.
In one embodiment, the fan element is designed as an axial fan. In addition, the intermediate space and/or the fan element are designed in such a way that the air stream is first guided along an axial direction of the fan element and then in a radial direction of the fan element over the outer surface. The intermediate space can surround the fan element on the circumference side. Thus, by means of the fan element, which is designed in the manner of an axial fan, the air stream can first be guided in the axial direction and then in the radial direction over the outer surface of the lens device. In this case, it is in particular provided that the air stream is guided in the radial direction from an edge region of the outer surface to a center point of the outer surface. Thus, the outer surface of the lens device can be reliably cleaned by the air stream. In addition, the air stream prevents contaminants from being deposited on the outer surface.
According to a further embodiment, the holding device has an air guiding element for guiding the air stream in the radial direction of the fan element. The air guiding element can be designed in such a way that a cross-sectional area of the recess in which the lens device and the fan element are arranged tapers along the direction of flow of the air stream. For example, the air guiding element can be embodied in one-part or integral with the holding device. The air guiding element can also be designed as a separate component. It can thus be achieved that the air stream is first guided in the axial direction and then in the radial direction.
In a further embodiment, the camera has a camera housing on which the lens device is held, wherein the camera housing has a round cross-section at least in some areas, and wherein the fan element surrounds the camera housing at least in some areas. The camera housing can be, for example, of cylindrical design. The camera electronics, which in particular comprises the image sensor of the camera, can be arranged in the camera housing. The camera housing can have a through-opening into which the lens device is introduced at least in some areas. In the present case, it is now provided that the fan element is arranged around the camera housing. Thus, a particularly space-saving design of the camera device can be made possible.
In particular, it is provided that the cleaning device has a bearing element by means of which the fan element is rotatably mounted on the camera housing. The bearing element can, for example, be formed by a ball bearing or a plain bearing. Thus, the fan member can be moved or rotated with a low friction relative to the camera housing.
According to a further embodiment, the cleaning device has a drive device for driving the fan element. The drive device can, for example, comprise an electric motor. The fan element can then be driven or moved with the electric motor. The electric motor can be designed as a direct current motor or as an alternating current motor. The drive device can also be arranged in the recess of the holding device. The holding device can also have a channel through which the air is guided from a suction opening to the fan element. In this case, the channel can be designed in such a way that the air, which flows through the channel or flows from the environment into the channel, drives the fan element. As the speed of the motor vehicle increases, the speed of the air in the channel can also increase. For this reason the speed of the fan element can increase with increasing speed of the motor vehicle. This can be taken into account when controlling the drive device or the electric motor. The drive device can be implemented dependent on the speed of the motor vehicle or the current rotational speed of the fan element. The drive device can be designed in such a way that the fan element can be driven up to a maximum rotational speed. Due to the air flowing through the channel, the fan element can be driven in such a way that this maximum rotational speed is exceeded. This is, for example, possible when the drive device is designed as an alternating current motor. Furthermore, a free wheel of the like can be provided. Thus, the fan element can be driven in a reliable manner.
In a further embodiment, the cleaning device has a heating element for heating the air stream. The heating element can in particular be designed as an electrical heating element. In particular, it is provided that the heating element is essentially annular. The heating element can at least partially surround the fan element. For example, the heating element can be arranged in a region of the fan element facing the lens device. Thus, the air stream, which is guided in the axial direction via the fan element, can be heated by means of the heating element. Thus, a heated air stream can be directed to the outer surface of the lens device. This is particularly suitable for removing ice, snow and/or water droplets, which have deposited on the outer surface of the lens device. It is preferably provided that the cleaning device has a filter element for filtering the air stream. This filter element can, for example, be perforated or have a plurality of through- openings. Thus, dust or dirt particles located in the air stream can be filtered out. Here, also it can be provided that the filter element is essentially annular. Preferably, the filter element is arranged on the outside of a suction opening of the holding device. The filter element can also be arranged inside a channel of the holding device. This channel can guide the air from the suction opening to the fan element. Thus, dirt particles from the air stream can be reliably prevented from accumulating inside the holding device and depositing on the outer surface of the lens device.
Furthermore, it is advantageous if the holding device has a suction opening for sucking in air from the environment of the holding device and a channel for guiding the air from the suction opening to the fan element. The suction opening can, for example, be arranged on a lower side of the holding device. This suction opening can be connected to the channel which supplies the air to the fan element. Thus, air can be supplied from the environment to the fan element to provide the air flow for cleaning the lens device.
A camera system according to the invention for a motor vehicle includes at least one camera device according to the invention. For example, the camera system can comprise two camera devices, which can each be disposed in the lateral areas of the motor vehicle. Further, the camera system can comprise a further camera, by means of which the environmental region behind the motor vehicle in direction of travel can be monitored. It can also be provided that the camera system comprises a camera, by means of which the environmental region in front of the motor vehicle in direction of travel can be monitored. Furthermore, it is advantageous if the camera system comprises a display device, by means of which a display can be output based on the images captured by the camera. For example, the images provided by the cameras can be displayed on the display device. The camera system can in particular be formed as a so-called electronic rearview mirror.
A motor vehicle according to the invention includes a camera system according to the invention. The motor vehicle is in particular formed as a passenger car. Therein, the camera device of the camera system is disposed in a lateral area of the motor vehicle. In particular, the camera device can be disposed in an area, in which the wing mirrors are usually disposed. The preferred embodiments presented with respect to the camera device according to the invention and the advantages thereof correspondingly apply to the camera system according to the invention as well as to the motor vehicle according to the invention.
Further features of the invention are apparent from the claims, the figures and the description of figures. The features and feature combinations mentioned above in the description as well as the features and feature combinations mentioned below in the description of figures and/or shown in the figures alone are usable not only in the respectively specified combination, but also in other combinations or alone without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, implementations are also to be considered as encompassed and disclosed by the invention, which are not explicitly shown in the figures and explained, but arise from and can be generated by separated feature combinations from the explained implementations. Implementations and feature combinations are also to be considered as disclosed, which thus do not have all of the features of an originally formulated independent claim. Moreover, implementations and feature combinations are to be considered as disclosed, in particular by the implementations set out above, which extend beyond or deviate from the feature combinations set out in the relations of the claims.
Now, the invention is explained in more detail based on preferred embodiments as well as with reference to the attached drawings.
There show:
Fig. 1 a motor vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention, which
comprises a camera system;
Fig 2 a camera device of the camera system in a perspective view;
Fig 3 the camera device according to Fig. 2 in an exploded view;
Fig 4 a fan element of the camera device in a side view;
Fig 5 a camera of the camera device in a perspective view; Fig. 6 a heating element and a filter element of the camera device in a perspective view;
Fig. 7 a schematic representation of the camera device according to a further embodiment;
Fig. 8 the camera device in a sectional side view; and
Fig. 9 a profile of the air stream for cleaning a lens device of the camera.
In the figures, identical and functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference characters.
Fig. 1 shows a motor vehicle 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention in a plan view. Presently, the motor vehicle 1 is formed as a passenger car. The motor vehicle 1 includes a camera system 2, by which an environmental region 8 of the motor vehicle 1 can be monitored. In particular, the environmental region 8 laterally next to the motor vehicle 1 can be monitored by the camera system 2. In particular, the camera system 2 is formed as a so-called electronic rearview mirror. The conventional wing mirrors and/or rearview mirrors can be replaced with such an electronic rearview mirror.
In the present case, the camera system 2 comprises two camera devices 4. The camera devices 4 - as explained in more detail below - each comprise a camera 9, by means of which images of the environmental region 8 can be recorded. In addition, the camera system 2 comprises a camera 9 which is arranged in a rear region 5 of the motor vehicle 1 and a camera 9 which is arranged in a front region 7 of the motor vehicle 1 .
Furthermore, the camera system 2 comprises a control device 3, which can be, for example, an electronic control unit of the motor vehicle 1 . The control device 3 is connected to the cameras 9 for data transmission. In addition, the camera system 2 comprises a display device 10, which is arranged in an interior of the motor vehicle 1 . A display can be provided on the display device 10 on the basis of the images which are recorded with the cameras 9. Thus, the environmental region 8 of the motor vehicle 1 can be displayed to a driver of the motor vehicle 1 .
Fig. 2 shows the camera device 4, which is located on the passenger side of the motor vehicle 1 , in a perspective view. The holding device 1 1 can, for example, be made of aluminum. It can be seen here that the camera device 4 has a holding device 1 1 by means of which the camera 9 is held on the motor vehicle 1 . In the present case, an outer surface 12 of a lens device 13 of the camera 9 can be seen.
Fig. 3 shows camera device 4 in an exploded view. The camera 9, which has the lens device 13, can be seen. The lens device 13 may have a plurality of lenses which serve to image light from the environmental region 8 to an image sensor of the camera 9. The outer surface 12 of the lens device 13 can be formed by a transparent cover element or by a lens. The camera 9 also comprises a camera housing 14, in which the camera electronics and in particular the image sensor of the camera 9 is arranged.
Moreover, the camera device 4 comprises a cleaning device 15, which serves to clean the outer surface 12 of the lens device 13. The cleaning device 15 comprises a fan element 16, by means of which an air stream for cleaning the lens device 13 can be provided. The cleaning device 15 further comprises a drive device 17 for driving the fan element 16. The drive device 17 can be formed by an electric motor. In addition, the cleaning device 15 comprises a bearing element 18, by means of which the fan element 16 is mounted. The bearing element 18 can, for example, be provided by a ball bearing. Further, the cleaning device 15 comprises a heating element 19 for heating the air flow provided by the fan element 16. Finally, the cleaning device 15 comprises a filter element 20 for filtering the air stream provided by a channel 27 (see Fig. 9). The holding device 1 1 comprises a recess 21 in which the cleaning device 15 is arranged. In addition, the camera 9 is arranged at least partially in the recess 21 .
Fig. 4 shows the fan element 16 in a side view. The fan element 16 is designed in the manner of an axial fan. By means of the fan element 16, an air stream can be provided, which runs essentially along the axial direction a of the fan element 16. This is illustrated here by the arrows 22. In addition, the heating element 19, which is arranged on the fan element 16, can be seen.
Fig. 5 shows the camera 9 in a perspective view. In this case, it can be seen that the camera housing 14 has a round cross-sectional area on its outer side 23. In this case, the cross-sectional area of the camera housing 14 tapers. The fan element 16 is arranged on the outer side 23 of the camera housing 14. Thus, the fan element 16 surrounds the camera housing 14. Fig. 6 shows the cleaning device 15, which is arranged on the camera 9 in a detailed view. Here, the heating element 19 can be seen, which serves to heat the air stream, which is provided by the fan element 16.
Fig. 7 shows the camera device 4 according to a further embodiment in a schematic representation. The camera 9, which is arranged in the recess 21 of the holding device 1 1 , can be seen. Between the camera 9 and the holding device 1 1 , an intermediate space 25 is formed, which serves to guide the air stream, which is provided by the fan element 16, in the axial direction a. In the present exemplary embodiment, the holding device 1 1 comprises the air guiding elements 26, which in this case are embodied in one piece with the holding device 1 1 . In the region of the air guide elements 26, the cross-sectional area of the recess 21 tapers. Thus, it can be achieved that the air stream is guided along the outer surface 12 in the radial direction r in the region of the lens device 13 or the outer surface 12.
Fig. 8 shows a camera device 4 according to a further embodiment in a sectional side view. Here, a channel 27 is shown, via which air is supplied to the fan element 16. The fan element 16 and the intermediate space 25 between the fan element 16 and the holding device 1 1 are designed in such a way that the air stream is guided obliquely between the axial direction a and the radial direction r of the fan element 16 via the outer surface 12 of the lens device 13.
Fig. 9 shows the camera device 4 in a sectional side view. It can be seen here that the holding device 1 1 has the channel 27. This channel 27 is connected to a suction opening 28 of the holding device 1 1 . Air can be sucked in from the environment via the suction opening 28. The air is guided from the suction opening 28 to the fan element 16 via the channel 27. The filter element 20 is formed by an element, which has a plurality of through-openings. The filter element 20 can be designed as a grid or as a mesh. The filter element 20 prevents dirt particles, which are present in the air stream in the channel 27, from being deposited on the outer surface 12 of the lens device 13. The air flow is guided with the fan element 16 in the axial direction a. As a result of the shaping of the intermediate space 25, the air stream is then deflected in the radial direction r to the outer surface 12.

Claims

Claims
1 . Camera device (4) for a motor vehicle camera (9) including a camera (9) for
detecting an environmental region (8) of the motor vehicle (1 ), wherein the camera (9) has a lens device (13) with at least one lens, including a holding device (1 1 ) for holding the camera (9) on the motor vehicle (1 ), and including a cleaning device
(15) for cleaning an outer surface (12) of the lens device (13),
characterized in that
the cleaning device (15) comprises a fan element (16) which is arranged on the holding device (1 1 ) and which is designed to provide an air stream for cleaning the outer surface (12) of the lens device (13).
2. Camera device (4) according to claim 1 ,
characterized in that
the fan element (16) is arranged in a recess (21 ) of the holding device (1 1 ), wherein an intermediate space (25) for guiding the air stream is formed between the holding device (1 1 ) and the fan element (16).
3. Camera device (4) according to claim 1 or 2,
characterized in that
the fan element (16) is designed as an axial fan.
4. Camera device (4) according to claim 2 or 3,
characterized in that
the intermediate space (25) and/or the fan element (16) are designed in such a way, that the air stream is initially guided along an axial direction (a) of the fan element
(16) and then in a radial direction (r) of the fan element (16) via the outer surface (12).
5. Camera device (4) according to claim 4,
characterized in that the holding device (1 1 ) has an air guide element (26) for guiding the air stream in the radial direction (r).
6. Camera device (4) according to any one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
the camera (9) comprises a camera housing (14) on which the lens device (13) is held, wherein the camera housing (14) has a circular cross-section, and wherein the fan element (16) surrounds the camera housing (14) at least partially.
7. Camera device (4) according to claim 6,
characterized in that
the cleaning device (15) has a bearing element (18), by means of which the fan element (16) is rotatably mounted on the camera housing (14).
8. Camera device (4) according to any one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
the cleaning device (15) has a drive device (17) for driving the fan element (16).
9. Camera device (4) according to any one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
the cleaning device (15) has a heating element (19) for heating the air stream.
10. Camera device (4) according to any one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
the cleaning device (15) has a filter element (20) for filtering the air stream.
1 1 . Camera device (4) according to any one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
the holding device (1 1 ) has a suction opening (28) for sucking in air from the environment of the holding device (1 1 ) and a channel (27) for guiding the air from the suction opening (28) to the fan element (26).
12. Camera system (2) for a motor vehicle (1 ) with at least one camera device (4) according to any one of the preceding claims.
13. Motor vehicle (1 ) with a camera system (2) according to claim 12.
PCT/EP2018/050643 2017-01-16 2018-01-11 Camera device for a motor vehicle with a cleaning device for providing the air stream, camera system as well as motor vehicle WO2018130610A1 (en)

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